Multi-objective model for designing hydrogen refueling station powered using on-grid photovoltaic-wind system

This study formulated a multi-objective model to size a sustainable hydrogen refueling station energized by integrated Photovoltaic-wind system connected to grid. The model takes into account practical constraints alongside three objective functions: maximization of renewable energy fraction, minimization of overall costs, and minimization of greenhouse gas emissions. An exact algorithm is employed to obtain the best solution, and a multi-criteria decision-making approach is utilized to choose the optimal solution from Pareto-optimal solutions. The performance of the model is validated on a hydrogen station that fulfills the daily hydrogen requirements for a fleet of 100 taxis in Tabuk city, Saudi Arabia. Different scenarios are analyzed to demonstrate the trade-offs between the three objectives. For example, the first configuration consists of 6527 photovoltaic panels and 296 wind turbines with capacities of 2.219 MW and 0.888 MW, respectively. The energy deficit is covered by the grid and the excess is exported to the grid. The economic assessment of this configuration reveals a hydrogen cost of 7.53 $/kg. Additionally, this study considered a scenario of powering the station using off-grid Photovoltaic-wind battery system. This analysis explores these differences, focusing on cost-effectiveness and environmental implications of using renewable energy for hydrogen production.